Daily Readings - Sat Sep 15 2018

⁷It is Christ who, in the days of his flesh, with a strong cry and tears, offered prayers and supplications to the One who was able to save him from death, and who was heard because of his reverence⁸And although, certainly, he is the Son of God, he learned obedience by the things that he suffered⁹And having reached his consummation, he was made, for all who are obedient to him, the cause of eternal salvation

Gospel - Luke 2.33-35 or John 19.25-27

Luke

Chapter 2

³³And his father and mother were wondering over these things, which were spoken about him³⁴And Simeon blessed them, and he said to his mother Mary: "Behold, this one has been set for the ruin and for the resurrection of many in Israel, and as a sign which will be contradicted³⁵And a sword will pass through your own soul, so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

John

Chapter 19

²⁵And standing beside the cross of Jesus were his mother, and his mother’s sister, and Mary of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene²⁶Therefore, when Jesus had seen his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing near, he said to his mother, "Woman, behold your son.²⁷Next, he said to the disciple, "Behold your mother." And from that hour, the disciple accepted her as his own

Sermon

The readings today offer a profound reflection on the nature of Jesus' mission and the role of suffering in our faith journey. In the first reading from Hebrews, we encounter Jesus in His humanity, praying with fervor and tears, seeking salvation. This passage emphasizes His obedience and the divine plan, where His suffering leads to eternal salvation for those who follow Him. The context of Hebrews is a letter to early Christians, explaining Jesus' role as a high priest who understands human struggles, thereby making Him the perfect mediator. The Gospel from Luke presents a scene from the temple where Simeon recognizes the infant Jesus as the Messiah. Simeon's words to Mary highlight the dual nature of Jesus' mission—bringing both ruin and resurrection, and acting as a sign of contradiction. This passage underscores the early recognition of Jesus' purpose and the impact it will have on Israel. The context here is part of Luke's infancy narrative, setting the stage for Jesus' public life and the divine plan unfolding. Both readings intertwine the themes of mission and suffering. Jesus' obedience and the impact of His mission on others, particularly Mary, illustrate that suffering is integral to God's plan. This relationship invites us to reflect on our own struggles and trust in God's purpose. In our daily lives, we are called to embrace our challenges with faith, recognizing that they can lead to growth and salvation. The moral lesson is clear: obedience and trust in God, even amidst suffering, are essential. Just as Jesus' journey included suffering for a greater purpose, so too can our struggles have meaning, guiding us toward eternal salvation.